Thanks to donations rounded up by businesses, schools and individuals, care packages destined for members of the 914th Airlift Wing are piling up at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station.
The problem is getting them to the men and women in the Middle East, where they're serving in the war in Iraq.
In order to raise money for mounting postage bills, as well as help the families left in Niagara and Erie counties, the Friends of Family Support Program is seeking cash donations, a spokeswoman for the 914th said.
"The donations are really coming in and we've got to get that stuff over to them somehow," said Mariah Church, the unit's public affairs representative. "The only way for us to get it over there to them is to mail it through 'snail' mail, just like everyone else."
The goods awaiting shipment include batteries, coffee, liquid soap, lip balm, sun block, letters from children, banners from schools, drink mixes and microwave popcorn. Prepaid phone cards have been another popular contribution, Church said.
Friends of Family compiled a wish list of items requested by members of the 914th. When a business or organization calls to offer assistance, they're referred to the list. As the piles of donations grow, so does the need for cash to pay the postage.
"Unfortunately, we aren't budgeted any money to take care of situations like this," Church said.
Donations have increased as the war progresses, Church said, with businesses and individuals trying to find ways to help local troops.
Friends of Family also offers assistance to the spouses and children of 914th members, whose everyday crises are compounded by the absence of a breadwinner.
"Say their hot-water heater breaks and they're financially strapped -- we give them the money to get it fixed," Church said.
Anyone wishing to donate money should make checks payable to Friends of Family Support and mail them to Mariah Church, Office of Public Affairs, 914th Airlift Wing, 2720 Kirkbridge Dr., Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14304-5000.
Businesses, organizations or individuals wishing to donate goods should contact Church by calling 236-2136 or e-mailing her at mariah.church@niagarafalls.af.mil to find out what items are needed.
| Niagara Falls Reporter | www.niagarafallsreporter.com | April 8 2003 |